Civil Service Scholarship Applications Due January 31, 2027 - News - Illinois State

Illinois State University civil service employees and their dependents have until January 31, 2027, to submit applications for three distinct scholarship programs managed by the Staff Council.

These awards, ranging from $500 to $1,000, provide financial support for undergraduate and graduate studies, targeting both family members of staff and employees themselves who are currently advancing their professional credentials.

The university maintains two separate tracks for dependents, distinguished primarily by the student’s institution of enrollment. The Civil Service ISU Scholarship offers $1,000 to children or dependents of a full-time Illinois State Civil Service employee, provided the student is currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate at Illinois State University. Candidates must maintain a “C” average or higher and demonstrate financial need to qualify.

For those attending institutions other than Illinois State, the Civil Service Non-ISU Scholarship provides a $500 award. Eligibility requirements for this grant mirror the ISU-specific program, requiring full-time student status and good academic standing. Recipients of the non-ISU scholarship must provide an official class schedule for both semesters, and their enrollment status is subject to confirmation after the tenth day of classes.

In addition to supporting dependents, the Staff Council oversees the Carl Johanson Civil Service Staff Scholarship. This specific award, endowed by Dr. Alvin Goldfarb to honor his father-in-law, recognizes the efforts of full-time Illinois State Civil Service employees who are pursuing further education.

To be eligible for the $1,000 scholarship, applicants must have at least two years of service at the university and be enrolled in coursework leading toward a degree, specifically entering their junior year or pursuing a master’s or doctoral program.

The selection committees for all three scholarships prioritize academic performance and financial need. Applicants are required to submit their most recent transcripts—high school transcripts are accepted for incoming freshmen—along with two letters of reference. The Staff Council specifies that these references cannot come from relatives, friends, or neighbors.

Maintaining a minimum “C” grade point average is a strict baseline for all categories. Students with questions regarding the application process or specific eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact the Staff Council directly.